Love's Redemption

Redmption 229

Xander’s description of a tough man immediately brought Brandon to

mind. I recalled what Derick had said about Xander’s friend with the last name Howell who had invested a large sum of money into his company.

I looked at Xander. “When you say tough man, what exactly do you mean? Do you happen to have such a friend, Mr. Roulder?”

Xander cleared his throat. “It’s hard to describe. It’s about having a strong, upright presence, like… like those on the screen.”

He pointed to the large TV in the cafeteria, which was showing news footage of flag bearers standing in perfect military posture. Each of them looked stern and resolute.

I couldn’t help but think of Brandon again, and I sensed that Xander was implying something.

I couldn’t help but think, “Is his surname Howell? A tough man? A soldier- like figure? Isn’t that Brandon?”

I looked at Xander, who was still staring at the screen, seemingly lost in thought. I decided to ask abruptly, “Do you have a friend named Brandon, Mr. Roulder?”

“Hmm? What did you say?” Xander turned and looked at me. Content provided by NôvelDrama.Org.

It was unclear whether he hadn’t heard me or was deliberately pretending not to understand.

“Do you have a friend named Brandon?” I repeated.

“Brandon?” Xander echoed, shaking his head. “No, who is that?”

He smiled at me and looked directly at me, but I could sense that his gaze was evasive.

forced a smile. “The tough man you mentioned, Mr. Roulder.”

Xander chuckled awkwardly. “Oh, really? Does such

your relationship with this tough man? Is it good?”

I noticed his curiosity and added, “You seem quite interested in this tough friend of mine. Would you like me to introduce you sometime?”

“Sure, but… is it convenient?” Xander hesitated, clearly reluctant.

“Is it not convenient?” I asked deliberately.

Xander smiled politely. “It’s just that I’m concerned about

misunderstandings. Your friend from yesterday seemed to have an issue with me and pretended to be your boyfriend.”

I didn’t answer his question and instead asked, “Does Mr. Roulder have a

friend with the surname Howell? What’s his name?”

“I… do…” Xander’s tongue stumbled over his words. “I call him Stephen.”

“Oh, how old is he?” I continued probing.

Xander’s expression grew a bit tense. “He’s not really old, but not young either. He’s in his 30s. Still, he doesn’t have a girlfriend.”

I nodded lightly. “Is it possible for me to meet him sometime?”

“Hmm?” Xander’s eyes widened with surprise and a hint of fear.

I smiled. “Mr. Roulder, you said he doesn’t have a girlfriend, and I happen to be single myself…”

Xander’s mouth twitched slightly, and he chuckled awkwardly. “Ms. Crown, I didn’t expect you to be so direct, actually trying to play matchmaker for yourself. I’m surprised.”

He gave me a thumbs–up as he spoke.

“There are few good men in this world, so if there’s a chance for me to get with someone who seems suitable, I should give it a try. Isn’t it said that happiness must be fought for?” I teased him.

Xander was at a loss for words and could only agree. “Yes, yes. Ms. Crown, you’re indeed exceptional.”

“So, Mr. Roulder, are you willing to help me set up a meeting with your

friend, Stephen?” I pressed on.

“Sure, sure.” Xander forced a smile that didn’t reach his eyes. “But I need to check with Stephen first because he… had a crush on someone, and it seems there’s some progress with her.”

“I see,” I said with a hint of regret.

“Yeah, so it’s unlikely he’ll be interested in meeting you.” Xander used this reason to decline.

But my interest in his friend with the last name Howell only grew. I wasn’t deterred. “As long as he isn’t married, I’ll still give it a try. Who knows, he might find me more suitable after he meets me.”

Xander was speechless. Now, I had completely baffled him.

“Mr. Roulder, do me a favor and help arrange this. It’s said that playing matchmaker can add ten years to one’s life and bring more blessings and fortune,” I said with a smile.

“I’ll be waiting for your good news,” I added.